Uchideshi Gasshuku 2024: A Transformative Journey in Aikido

soon kim Koh
Aug 31, 2024
1 min read

I was the only participant from Hong Kong at the Uchideshi Gasshuku 2024, held from 11-22 August at the Shudokan Institute of Aikido in Seremban, Malaysia. This 15-day training camp, organized by Aikido Shudokan International and led by Joe Thambu Shihan, Ramlan Ortega Shihan, and Ondrej Musil Shihan, was tough but rewarding. It took place at Malaysia’s first Aikido dojo, founded in 1961 by Thamby Rajah Sensei.

The training was designed to mirror the legendary “Hell Dojo” (Jigoku Dojo in Japanese) of Koganei Dojo, established by Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido, pushing all 14 participants from Indonesia, Poland, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, England, Czech Republic, and Hong Kong to our physical and mental limits.

The best part was the bond with my 13 fellow uchi deshi. We trained, ate, and laughed together, supporting each other through tough moments. Their encouragement helped me keep going, even when I was tired or had small injuries. I’m grateful to Joe Thambu Shihan for pushing us and to Ramlan Ortega Shihan for his guidance, especially as we celebrated his 30 years in Aikido.

This experience taught me discipline and the value of community. I’ll bring these lessons back to my students at Aikido Shudokan Hong Kong. Thanks to my uchi deshi friends for making it unforgettable.

For a glimpse into our journey, watch the Uchideshi Gasshuku 2024 episodes: